The Traveling Student

I learned T’ai Chi Chih three years ago at our local senior center in Charlotte, Vermont. Prior to that I had benefitted from meditation. And through the years I loved and participated in various forms of movement, including informal dance, authentic movement and walking. But after learning TCC I knew I had found something special that I wanted to pursue because it combines both meditation and movement.

There is something innate and eternal in the feeling I get from doing TCC practice – a core solidity. I find the gentle rocking motions to be calming and quieting. I feel in sync with the universe as my body repeats circular motions that are part of the culture of every ethnic and religious group. 

I hadn’t realized I needed to be gentler with myself but TCC taught me that. My husband says I have changed. I am more available and patient – less prone to push myself to achieve. I walk more slowly and take my time with daily affairs. I am more accepting of time constraints, have a broader perception, and a more relaxed view to bring to life’s adversities as they appear and disappear.

There are currently no TCC teachers in my home state of Vermont. It’s uncanny and synchronistic, though, that Justin Stone and an active TCC Center should be located in Albuquerque, which we visit twice a year because our daughter lives there. My first contact there was with the helpful Ginny Morgan who invited me to join her intermediate class. Now each time I go to Albuquerque I always get my TCC fix – whether it’s a retreat with Antonia or a review class with Carmen Brocklehurst. Thank you, Justin, and all you inspiring teachers. I surely benefit from my daily practice and so do the people who come in contact with me.